A woman came up to me on the street and asked, “Well, Doctor, what have we got — a republic or a monarchy?”
And my reply was, “A republic, madam — if you can keep it!”
And here we are, 229 years later. Still citizens of the United States of America. And our noble experiment in constitutional government still survives. We’re still here! Still proving to the world that our new idea in nationhood has the power to endure.
This may be the gravest test yet of whether it will. Time will tell, in the weeks ahead. I’m told by historians that there have been many other contentious elections (and other momentous events) before this one. And somehow, as a country, we managed to make it through all of those controversies and calamities. With a few wrinkles, scrapes, wounds, and regrets, of course. But nevertheless, we did it… sometimes by the skin of our teeth.
What about this time? We’re already seeing protests in the streets. As I’ve said on other occasions, that’s nothing new to me. In my time, during those uncertain days before and after our declaration of independence, I can remember similar expressions of deep-seated feelings — on both sides of the political divide!
This is not Survivor. This is the real thing.
So, where to from here? Honestly, that is a very good question. This is not some TV reality show like Survivor. This is the real thing.
My sincere wish for all of you, my dear readers — for all of us, actually — is that the new actor in the play, this surprise walk-on “guest star” on the planks of this rickety old stage of American governance, quickly realizes the true enormity and responsibility of the role he has just taken on…and acts accordingly, with all the seriousness, gravity, honesty, and sensitivity he can possibly muster.
And more than that, I hope that you hold onto your beliefs, your convictions, your passion, and your innermost truths, and that you continue to let your voice be heard in the days ahead. Do not let anyone lull you into a false sense of security, or sway you towards “just going along with the crowd.” Do not give in to apathy or discouragement.
Have courage! Resist oppression and injustice of every kind. Fight against misguided, selfish, vengeful, and arbitrary-minded decision making whenever and wherever it happens, at both the local and highest levels of this country. And be a voice for compassion, reason, equality, peace, and love, at every opportunity that presents itself.
We Founding Fathers had a vision for this country. It’s up to you now, to help us keep it intact.
Your humble servant,
B.Franklin